Portsmouth City Council has officially granted planning permission for the redevelopment of the long-abandoned Venture Tower, transforming it into a 100-bedroom student residence. This decision, made by the council's planning committee, aims to breathe new life into a prominent location that has remained empty for over two decades.
The ambitious project, spearheaded by Mi Casa Developments, will not only refurbish the existing structure but also include considerable extensions and new cladding to enhance its aesthetic appeal. The development promises to provide modern communal facilities, catering specifically to the needs of student residents.
Gerald Vernon-Jackson, chair of the council's planning committee, expressed his views on the significance of the redevelopment. He remarked on the negative impact of having an empty building in such a prominent area, stating,
"I've known this empty building for 25 years, and having an empty building in such a prominent location for that long is not good for the city."
Although the planning permission was granted, Mr. Vernon-Jackson noted that the council's authority does not extend to dictating the specific use of private developments. He acknowledged that long-standing residents have cultivated a cohesive community, which the new development might disrupt. He cautioned that,
"Long-standing residents have built a cohesive and engaged community, and this development threatens to undermine that sense of stability and belonging."
Mi Casa Developments has assured stakeholders that the design of Venture Tower accommodates future adaptability. The company emphasized their intention to create a versatile space by stating,
"We've designed the building in a modular fashion so that if, in the future, there's no longer any need for student accommodation, we can convert it into an apartment building with minimal work to meet whatever need arises."
The redevelopment is positioned as a vital step towards addressing the growing demand for student housing in Portsmouth. By converting the previously abandoned structure into functional student flats, the project aims to foster a vibrant community while revitalizing a key area of the city.
